Aiko’s Tearjerker Songs, Cry-your-eyes-out Tracks, and Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)aiko1rank/position

aiko - 'Kabutomushi' music video

It’s a song by aiko that portrays a delicate heart: identifying with an insect that protects itself with a hard shell yet is fragile inside, and acting tough precisely because it’s in love.

Like that insect that cannot survive the winter, the song foresees the end of love, yet its deep affection moves you as it tries to accept even the sadness as a cherished memory.

Released in November 1999, it was also used as the ending theme for TBS’s CDTV.

If you’ve ever found yourself putting on a brave front in front of someone you like, you’ll understand this all too well! As you listen, may you embrace that awkwardness as a part of yourself and find the courage to step forward into tomorrow.

nape (of the neck)aiko2rank/position

aiko - “Eriashi” music video

A winter ballad whose aching vocals by aiko strike straight to the heart.

It portrays feelings that can’t be severed for a former lover and a love that doesn’t fade, even after years have passed.

Many who hope to rekindle a romance will likely be moved to tears by the strong wish to someday meet again—if only the other person is still out there somewhere.

Released as a single in November 2003, the song is also included on the acclaimed album “Akatsuki no Love Letter.” There’s even a story that aiko herself shed tears during the mixing process.

If you listen to it when you’ve been separated yet can’t let go, it will surely affirm your pure feelings and give you the courage to face forward once more.

pupilaiko3rank/position

[Yushin Nakatani] Hitomi / aiko (Cover)

Singer-songwriter aiko, known for her colorful songs that express “love,” is beloved by a wide range of generations and has been active since the 1990s as a leading figure in the J-pop scene.

“Hitomi,” included on her 2006 album Kanojo, is a birthday song that gently watches over the growth of someone dear.

Its jazzy sound, which exudes a moody, mature vibe, matches beautifully with her soulful vocals.

Why not listen to this mellow track—with a touch of wistfulness—on a special day?

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mutō

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I fell in loveaiko4rank/position

Theme song PV of the film 'A Silent Voice'

This song by aiko is a memorable piece that beautifully portrays the sadness and joy of love.

It’s a ballad centered on piano and strings, featuring a delicate melody line and lyrics that depict romance from a woman’s perspective.

Released in September 2016, it was used as the theme song for the film A Silent Voice.

Aiko herself is a fan of the original work and created the song to align with the film’s worldview.

It will resonate not only with those in love, but even more so when listened to after watching the movie.

This moving work is likely to remain beloved alongside the film for a long time.

KissHugaiko5rank/position

aiko- 『KissHug』music video

Aiko has many songs that speak for the feelings of a girl brimming with energy and in love.

She also has various heart-wrenching love songs, and among them, KissHug is a guaranteed tearjerker—a track whose lyrics and melody are unbearably poignant.

This song was also used as an insert song in Boys Over Flowers: Final, the movie adaptation of the hugely popular Boys Over Flowers series in manga, anime, and drama.

The lyrics feel like reminiscing about the past in summer, and listening to it during the hot season might make it hit even harder.

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utatane

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by next timeaiko6rank/position

aiko - “By Next Time” music video

A heartbreaking breakup song by aiko that has earned overwhelming support from fans as a “hidden gem” and a song they wish she’d perform live more often.

It portrays the lonely state of a woman who senses her lover’s change of heart, agonizes over what she should do, and ultimately decides to part ways.

Realizing that she’s no longer important to the other person while being unable to let go of her love is truly painful and agonizing.

Like the female protagonist of “Kondo made wa,” it would be wonderful if, in the end, we could accept our own realization and make a positive choice.

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yuri

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First loveaiko7rank/position

aiko - “First Love” music video

When it comes to love songs, aiko is the one that comes to mind.

This track is included on the classic 2001 single Natsufuku, which blends summery freshness with a touch of melancholy.

From the emotional guitar intro, the song pulls you right in, portraying the helpless feeling of being in love through a perspective only aiko can offer.

The delicate lyrics, where even the smallest things can move the heart in a big way, are simply heartrending.

It’s a song that stands by any kind of romance, but the earnest final line will likely resonate especially with those in long-distance relationships.

It’s a love song that stays close to a heart swelling more and more with love.

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KEI

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